Page 203 of Innocent Intentions

“We appreciate it, Mom,” I tell her with a warm smile.

“Who all will be in the wedding?”

“Bash, Dom, and Roman will be the groomsmen,” Margot says, then hesitates. Her cheeks flush. “And I figured their dates could be the bridesmaids.”

She’s embarrassed. I know she feels self-conscious about not having any close girlfriends.

“I won’t be taking a date,” Dom cuts in, his voice flat.

“Nor will I,” Bash spits out, arms crossed, as though the idea of a date to my wedding disgusts him.

What the hell?

I’d expected it from Dom, but it’s surprising from Bash. The man has dozens of women on speed dial.

“Why not? It’s not like you don’t have a long list of options,” I ask Bash.

“I’m not seeing any of them anymore.”

“Since when?” I ask, eyebrows raised.

“They don’t interest me.”

Before anyone can follow up, the dining room door swings open and Roman walks in.

A beautiful woman trails behind him.

Tall and graceful. Long, dark waves framing her soft features. Her skin is tanned, her brown eyes vivid and wide. She’s wearing a floor-length skirt and a flowy blouse.

Who the hell is this?

“Hey guys. This is Cecilia, my girlfriend.” Roman delivers it casually, like he didn’t just drop a grenade in the room.

We all stare, stunned. She looks way too soft for Roman. He’s going to eat her alive.

Margot recovers first.

“Welcome! It’s such a pleasure to have you. I’m Margot, and this is my fiancé, Matthias.” She flashes Cecilia one of her warm, radiant smiles.

For a second, I’m jealous that someone else gets to be on the receiving end of it. Then Margot squeezes my hand beneath the table, and I pull her close.

“It’s so nice to meet you,” Cecilia beams. “Roman’s told me so much about you guys. Mr. and Mrs. Montclair, your home is absolutely lovely. Thank you for having me.”

“Of course, dear,” Mom responds smoothly. “We’re so glad to finally meet you. Please, sit down.” She stands abruptly,realizing there’s no place set. “I’m sorry. We’ll have a spot made right away. Please, sit.”

Cecilia’s smile doesn’t waver. “I’m so sorry for intruding. I can leave if this was meant to be just family. Roman must’ve forgotten to mention it.” She turns to him with teasing eyes. “Héroe, how silly of you.”

I brace myself for it. Waiting for Roman to snap. To bark at her. To correct her.

For teasing him.

For reprimanding him.

For calling himhero.

What the fuck was that? Roman’s the villain.

But instead, he pulls her into a hug.

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